On a recent episode of comedian Theo Von’s podcast, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul spoke about his growing interest in politics, framing the idea less as a publicity stunt and more as a potential sense of duty that has evolved over time.
The conversation began when Von asked about Paul’s relationship with Vice President JD Vance, whom Paul had recently sat beside at the Olympics. Paul acknowledged that being in high-level politics comes with significant risks and consequences.
“If you’re the vice president, you’re already playing the game. That’s a dangerous game,” Paul said. “I dabble in it, which is scary because I don’t want to get popped. But beyond that, there are so many things behind the scenes. Brands won’t even associate with you because of your political stance. It’s a really interesting game to play in.”
When asked directly whether he has ambitions of running for office himself, Paul explained that the idea was first planted years ago by his business partner and has gradually become more serious in his mind.
“Six years ago, my business partner Geoffrey Woo was like, ‘You’re going to become the president,'” Paul said. “And then it became less and less of a joke. Then I started to realize, if I’m the best person to do it and can actually win, then I might need to do it. I’m already playing the biggest games of life.”
Paul tied that mindset to his personal interest in Stoic philosophy, specifically the teachings of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, whose writings have influenced many modern leaders and athletes.
“I think it goes back to helping others and community. I’m a big fan of Marcus Aurelius,” Paul said. “The biggest thing he says is your duty to society is the most important thing. So that’s where I’ve landed recently, because I have everything. I just go back to the leader of the Roman Empire and what he had to say. Your biggest thing is to be a part of society and make it a better place.”
However, Paul made clear that politics is not an immediate plan but something he sees as a distant possibility.
“It’s a light in the distance,” he said. “We’ll dabble in that if it makes sense. And if there’s like a Kamala running on the Democratic party, some dumba*s running and opposing, I will enter the game and risk getting assassinated, but I don’t want to.”
When Von suggested that a local or regional role could be a logical starting point, Paul revealed that he has already considered that path and even identified a specific location.
“You’re actually super perceptive because that was my plan, to start in northern Puerto Rico,” Paul said. “Which just got defunded.”
Paul acknowledged the personal cost that comes with entering public office, noting that the decision would affect not just him but his entire family.
“Running means signing your kids up for it,” he said. “You’re taking away not only your life but everyone you’re affiliated with. Still, it seems like we need heroes out there.”
